‘BEST CHARITY BOOK’ - Best 11 Christmas Books for Children, The Independent
Age 5-7 | Available in hardback and paperback | 36 pages |
Hardback Publication 2022 | Paperback Publication 2023
Whilst searching for food in the snow-covered streets, Gaspard makes an astonishing discovery and, with the help of his friends, might just have saved Christmas.
A heart-warming festive adventure for London’s handsomest fox.
Proceeds from this book will go to St Martin-in-the- Fields Charity to help people in vulnerable situations find and keep a home.
Click here to view the concert page
Books in the series:
Click here to view the Welsh edition.
Zeb Soanes is a children’s author and broadcaster. He presents weekday evenings on Classic FM. For over 20 years, he was a newsreader and reassuring voice of the Shipping Forecast on BBC Radio 4. He has written for The Observer, Country Life, and The Literary Review and his best-selling first book for children, Gaspard the Fox began a series of stories based on the real urban fox that visits him at home in London. He has earned a reputation as ‘the go-to person for music narration’ with the UK’s leading orchestras, performing favourite works for children including Paddington’s First Concert and Peter and the Wolf. In recognition of his efforts to culturally rehabilitate the urban fox, he was made the first patron of the Mammal Society.
James Mayhew is an acclaimed illustrator, author, concert presenter and storyteller. He is the creator of the much loved Ella Bella Ballerina and Boy. He published The Knight Who Took All Day with Graffeg in September 2017.
Reviews:
'Gaspard already has the feel of a classic. Zeb Soanes and James Mayhew have created something both modern and timeless, a children’s story absolutely lifting with charm and atmosphere.’ Alexander Armstrong
‘Best loved Gaspard the Fox is back for another heart-warming and magical adventure.' Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading4Kids
'It's a book that grips you and fills you with tears of sadness that turn to tears of joy as the warmth and kindness of Gaspard and his friends, both animal and human, spreads as they come to the aid of someone in need. Few books leave a mark on your soul - this is one of them.' Busy Busy Learning
'Every time I read this book it makes me emotional - it’s honestly so beautiful and thoughtful.' Posies Book Club
'It’s impossible to give this book anything less than 5 stars. It’s beautifully written, the illustrations are stunning and the story is heartwarming, sweet and full of love, compassion & kindness.' Piggindani Reads
'These are classics in the making, wonderful storytelling and beautiful illustrations.' It's All About Stories
'This is a cosy, heart-warming and magical story full of atmosphere and warmth.' Dems Book Den
'A beautiful story' Suze and Sophie Reading Corner
'I absolutely loved the message of this book, and would definitely use it in class to spark conversations about generosity, kindness, and gratitude, as well as homelessness.' A Book Bound Girl
'It’s a beautiful story and such an important one, definitely one to keep coming back to.' Stacy's Book Nook
'The illustrations are marvelous and add so much charm to the wonderful words. I am not going to force you to buy it but I am telling you that your kids will adore Gaspar's Christmas.' Book Nerd Cafe
'A Christmas classic in the making to read and reread every year.' Jo Bowers, Just Imagine
'If you're looking for a lovely book to enjoy I this season I would highly recommend this one with its gorgeous illustrations' Two Ladies and a Book
'Zeb Soanes has written a soul-touching, inspiring tale of friendship and community while also creating an avenue to open discussions with children about homelessness and the less fortunate in society, with James Mayhew bringing Gaspard and friends to life with truly wonderful illustrations.' Pixie goes Rogue
'The unmistakable message about supporting those who are less fortunate shine through strongly in this one.’ Scott Evans, The Reader Teacher
'Such a vital message about selflessness and a thought-provoking story about the importance of showing kindness to those less well off than ourselves. I love James Mayhew’s painterly, detailed illustrations that, as always in this series, are infused with loving concern.' Jill R Bennett, Red Reading Hub
'This is a heartwarming festive read about friendship, kindness and community that serves as a reminder to think of all the other people less fortunate at Christmas and give back where you can.' Gina, Raising Bookworms
'A touching story, beautifully illustrated, which highlights that not everyone is enjoying a warm Christmas with family and lots of food and presents. It’s a heartfelt story of kindness and compassion for those around us.' Milo and Gigis Bookshelf
'This is such a lovely and fun story and the perfect tale for Christmas!' The Strawberry Post
'A beautiful book to gift at Christmas.' Zoe James-Williams, Drawing on Books
'A warmhearted story about caring for the most needy in our community, celebrating the work of shelters, particularly in winter months and during the Christmas season. The illustrations are stunning, capturing the magic of winter evenings.' Love my Books
'The more I read this, the more powerful I find it. A story of helping others, of kindness and compassion, it's heart-warming but also a real dose of reality in the way it explores the issue of homelessness.' Teeny Readers
'If you have small people in your life, and/or love beautiful illustrations and fun, adventurous stories about wonderful animals doing all kinds of fun things, then the Gaspard books are for you' Ninja Book Box
Praise for the series:
'Brilliant.' David Walliams
‘I loved reading about the adventures of Gaspard the urban fox – surely a prince in disguise? More please.’ Francesca Simon, author of the Horrid Henry series
‘A wonderfully warm-hearted animal adventure based on Zeb Soanes observation of a local urban fox… perfectly captured in James Mayhew’s illustrations.’ Julia Eccleshare ‘Pick of the Month’, LoveReading4Kids
‘A modern day classic and a delight to read aloud.’ South Wales Evening Post Children’s Book of the Week
‘Lavish with words, Gaspard the Fox is a lovely story with gorgeous illustrations that is a joy to share.’ North Somerset Teacher’s Book Award
'A beautifully illustrated picture book for older children.' Books for Keeps
'Themes of difference, hardship and homelessness are presented in a non-judgemental way, with the power of kindness celebrated to triumph adversity.' Meg Barclay, The School Librarian